CCTV inspection of Negombo Prison disturbance to Moratuwa University

In connection with the investigations into the recent unrest at Negombo Prison, two Digital Video Recorder (DVR) hard drives containing CCTV footage installed there have been sent to the Computer Forensics Laboratory at the University of Moratuwa for scientific analysis. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) reported this to Negombo Chief Magistrate Ms. Shilani Perera on Thursday (16).

When the case was called, CID officers also submitted a progress report to the court, detailing the current status of the investigations.

The investigators informed the court that these DVR hard drives, taken into their custody in accordance with a court order, were sent to the University of Moratuwa to obtain a forensic report. They also stated that steps have been taken to map the Negombo Prison premises where the incident occurred, using drone technology with the assistance of the Survey Department. Furthermore, the investigating officers sought court approval to send blood samples and clothing of one detainee who died during the unrest to the Government Analyst for further examination and a forensic report.

Evidence related to the magisterial inquiry into the deaths of three detainees who lost their lives in this incident was also recorded, and their relatives provided testimony regarding the identification of the deceased and the performance of their last rites. Additionally, preliminary post-mortem reports for one detainee who later died while receiving treatment at the Colombo National Hospital and two prison officers were also submitted to the court by the investigators. The Chief Magistrate adjourned the case until July 23rd for the recording of further evidence and the submission of the next progress report on the investigations.